Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has confirmed that Cole Palmer and Estevao will return to the squad for this weekend’s Premier League encounter with Wolverhampton Wanderers, although the Blues boss insists their reintegration will be handled cautiously on a match by match basis.
Chelsea host Wolves for the first time since their convincing 3-0 victory over the Midlands club in November, with Rosenior seeking to extend his impressive early tenure at Stamford Bridge.
The 41 year old has enjoyed a strong start to life in west London, securing six wins from his first eight matches across all competitions, including victories in his opening three league fixtures. Another triumph against league strugglers Wolves would further strengthen his growing reputation.
Rosenior delivered encouraging news regarding Palmer and Brazilian youngster Estevao, confirming both players are available for selection after recent fitness concerns.
However, the Chelsea manager stressed that managing Palmer’s workload remains a delicate balancing act as the club prioritises long term performance and injury prevention.
He emphasised that Chelsea’s medical and sports science departments are taking a measured approach to the England international’s recovery, refusing to place definitive timelines on when the midfielder will return to peak physical condition.
“Jamie is more long-term. He’s got a tear in his hamstring which is a real shame for him.
“I’ve not had the chance to work with him for long, but I know about his career and what an outstanding player he is, so it’s a big loss. It’s too early to say how long he will be out for right now.”
On if Cole Palmer and Estevao will be fit this weekend: “Yes.”
On when Palmer may be back to normal: “Another hypothetical question. We have the best medical team in the world and the best sports science team in the world and we want to make sure the players can play to the level needed to help us win.
“There isn’t a time frame – that he’s going to be perfect in one month or two or three – it’s just game by game.”
Palmer’s campaign has been disrupted by intermittent fitness challenges, reflected in modest statistical returns of four league goals and no assists across 13 appearances.
Rosenior, however, dismissed suggestions of frustration surrounding the player’s output, reiterating his commitment to maximising Palmer’s influence within a demanding fixture schedule.
“You want all of your players to be 100%, 100% of the time, but that is not going to happen. Frustration isn’t the word – I’m trying to get the best out of him and the rest of the team all of the time while taking into account the games coming up.
“It’s not about being not able to play him in some games, it’s making sure he feels right and contributing to the team the way he wants to.”
Finally, questions turned to what Rosenior thinks is his best starting eleven, to which he gave a telling answer:
“I got asked this question not long ago – I don’t have a best XI. I have a best starting team and a best finishing team.
“I don’t think best XIs are the way to go. I’m learning about the group all the time. They know the journey I want to go on with them.”
